[Engine] Bonnet Catch

[A d price]

I cannot open the bonnet of my 2004 Multispace. Release handle moves but does not activate catch. Anybody know how to resolve this. Thanks
Alun Price

[rnamman]

I cannot open the bonnet of my 2004 Multispace. Release handle moves but does not activate catch. Anybody know how to resolve this. Thanks
Alun Price

Alun, you're not alone. I've always had problems opening the bonnet on my 2014 Multispace since new. The chaps at the Citroen dealer and at Halfords can do it, but my hands seem too big to move the under-bonnet lever correctly. The lever moves but doesn't dis-engage. Would love to find the answer to this.

[lakeside]

Though I usually can open now I did use to carry a stick to get to the catch. Sods Law is it will be at an inappropriate time, place and weather when you want to get to it; you have to lift the bonnet a bit to assist; or change your hands to those of a chimpanzee.

[Gravity]

The release catch has built in slop. It's a poor piece of 'afterthought' engineering.

I remedied this to some extent by carefully bending the metal part that the plastic handle is attached to, so that it was slightly raised and more forward, making it easier to locate. This can only be done a little, otherwise it fouls the bonnet when you shut it.

Of course, to make this adjustment, you first have to open the bonnet ... !

Gravity

[ffrenchie]

If you get an assistant to press down on the front of the bonnet a little it takes pressure off the catch. Lubricate the under bonnet parts when you get it open.

[dumdum]

Do you mean the handle in the vehicle or the handle that releases the bonnet once popped? As you have suggestions for both above?